Edmonton is a classic example of the problem with thinking the #1 draft choice will automatically lead to a Stanley Cup. With some of the celebrations I saw from Toronto, I think a lot of people forget that hockey is not a solo sport. Indeed, one great player does not make a team.
I want to believe Shanahan & Co. that this will be a long build for the Leafs. That it will be 4 - 5 years in the making. That they will build from the bottom up, with young talent they have achieved through the draft, and slowly brought up. That it will be sustainable, year over year. That ounce back at a higher level the Leafs will ounce again be a consistent contender in the league.
But of course you'll forgive the forlorn Leafs fan, because they have heard it all before. I think the one thing that is actually driving this is money (in a positive way), for the first time ever, due to many changes, the revenue from the Leafs that MLSE makes is down, or has been flat for a very long time. I know that TV numbers & revenue is down massively, and I am also guessing merchandise revenue is down as well. The only way to reverse both these is to put a winner on the ice.
The catalyst for this - the success the Blue Jays and Raptors have had with winning teams. The hysteria that a deep Stanley Cup run, that the Leafs would create in Toronto and further abroad, would massively dwarf that of the Jays and Raptors!
Steve Fleck @stevefleck | Blog